Published: 12 Nov 2024

Blood Tests Commonly Performed

* Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures overall blood health, including red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and hemoglobin levels.

* Basic Metabolic Panel: Assesses various blood components, including glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN).

* Coagulation Factors: Evaluates the proteins and chemicals involved in blood clotting.

* Autoimmune and Immune-System Tests: A range of tests that measure immune system function.

Hormone Measurements

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Measures thyroid function, indicating thyroid hormone production by the pituitary gland.

* Hypothyroidism: Too much TSH in the blood, suggesting underactive thyroid function.
* Hyperthyroidism: Too little TSH in the blood, indicating overactive thyroid function.

Testosterone (Free Testosterone):

* Men: Produced in the testes, regulates muscle mass, fertility, libido, and well-being.
* Women: Produced in the ovaries, may indicate low estrogen levels or excessive hair growth.

Fasting Requirements

For tests requiring fasting (e.g., CBC, basic metabolic panel), follow instructions carefully on which medications should be taken the night before. Generally, a 12-hour fast is recommended.